The Inter-Religious Council of Uganda (IRCU) has made a clarion call for the protection of Uganda’s indigenous herbal research and medical innovations.
“IRCU believes Uganda should encourage and protect local innovation. Our country has abundant medicinal plants, talented researchers, and indigenous knowledge that, if properly researched and developed, can make a significant contribution to healthcare, economic development, and scientific advancement,” IRCU secretary general, Joshua Kitakule said in a statement.
President Museveni has previously made a case for supporting innovators and researchers, mentioning herbal researcher, David Ssenfuka as one of those who need to be supported.
The president also invited Ssenfuka to address cabinet about his herbal research and medicine.
The president rcently told cabinet that the country stands to benefit immensely if Ssenfuka’s medicine is to ever be produced, noting that it makes no sense for government to spend money on “ useless things”, but fail to fund scientists to produce medicines that not only benefit Ugandans but also people elsewhere.
According to the Inter-Religious Council of Uganda, they recently met with President Museveni and later a side meeting with Mr. David Ssenfuka, a Ugandan herbalist who explained his research in herbal medicine.
“During this side meeting, the IRCU received a presentation on Mr. Ssenfuka’s research journey, the development of his herbal formulations, and the vision of making affordable treatment options available to Ugandans and the wider African continent. The council has also noted testimonies of individuals who have reportedly benefited from Mr. Ssenfuka’s herbal interventions, including some well-known Ugandans including Mr. Joshua Kitakule, the Secretary General of IRCU,” the statement said.
According to the religious leaders, IRCU seven years ago, they met Ssenfuka through Bishop Joshua Lwere and made some recommendations.
“We are happy that his efforts are paying off now. We therefore commend His Excellency the President for supporting indigenous research and innovation, and for providing an opportunity for innovators such as Mr. Senfuka to engage with relevant government institutions,” IRCU said.
The religious leaders said strengthening research programs on herbal medicine will build public trust in local remedies.
“Currently, skepticism persists because outcomes are uncertain. By investing in credible research, Uganda can unlock the full potential of its indigenous knowledge, reduce reliance on imported pharmaceuticals, and contribute to global medical innovation. Such support would not only improve access to affordable healthcare but also position Uganda as a leader in indigenous medical research and pharmaceutical innovation.”
The Inter-Religious Council of Uganda equally urged the public to remain patient and responsible by avoiding misinformation, speculation, or premature conclusions while the appropriate scientific and regulatory processes continue.
“At the same time, we urge Government to tighten regulation in herbal medicines to weed out fraudulent practitioners who are exploiting vulnerable patients for financial gain. This will ensure that genuine practitioners thrive.”
“As faith leaders, we affirm that faith, science, and innovation are partners in advancing human well-being. We pray that God grants wisdom to our scientists, innovators, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and regulators as they work together to discover safe, effective, and affordable solutions for the health challenges facing our nation.”
